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Waterman's attack on the manatee happened in January in St Lucie County, according to investigators.

The wildlife commission told WPTV: 'An interaction that may seem harmless and innocent may ultimately have serious consequences for manatees and other wildlife.'

Disgrace: Waterman encourages the little girl to touch the manatee which is an endangered species in Florida

Bad example: The 21-year-old man encouraged the children to stroke the manatee calf

Arrested: Waterman has been charged with a misdemeanor after being accused of harming a manatee

In November a woman was arrested in Florida for riding a manatee in Fort DeSoto Park.

Ana Gloria Garcia Gutierrez, 53, has been charged with a misdemeanor and is out on bail. She told police that she was new to the area and wasn't aware that she had done anything wrong.

Florida's Manatee Sanctuary Acts reads: 'It is unlawful for any person at any time, by any means, or in any manner intentionally or negligently to annoy, molest, harass, or disturb or attempt to molest, harass, or disturb any manatee.'

The second-degree misdemeanor for harming a manatee carries up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.